Skynet-1A satellite’s unexplained orbit change raises questions about order history

The UK’s oldest satellite, Skynet-1A, has mysteriously changed its position in space with no clear trace of who directed the movement or why. Launched in November 1969, just months after the first moon landing, Skynet-1A originally provided communications for British military forces from a high orbit over East Africa. However, despite the expected gravitational drift towards the Indian Ocean, Skynet-1A now orbits over the Americas, half a world away from its original location.

Satellite drift or intentional movement?

Experts in orbital mechanics find it is unlikely that the half-ton satellite simply drifted to this new position. Instead, the change suggests a deliberate order that activated the satellite’s thrusters in the 1970s, moving it westward. Space consultant Dr. Stuart Eves pointed out that this move places the satellite in a “gravity well” at 105 degrees west, where its motion oscillates, bringing it closer to active satellite traffic, increasing the chance of collision.

Trace the satellite command history

Efforts are being made to trace Skynet-1A’s journey and reveal limited historical documentation. According to Graham Davison, who formerly operated Skynet-1A, command of the satellite initially remained under US control before being handed over to the British RAF. Davison notes that it is possible that the Americans took over command later, although documents confirming this are rare. Rachel Hill, a doctoral student at University College London, suggested that the move could have taken place during maintenance, when control was temporarily transferred to the United States at their Sunnyvale facility.

Impact on modern satellite operations

In light of modern space concerns, Skynet-1A’s position poses a challenge. The Defense Ministry said it was monitoring the satellite to avoid possible conflicts with active satellites. Experts like aerospace engineer Professor Moriba Jah warn that aging satellites like Skynet-1A increase the risk of “superspreader events,” where debris from collisions could endanger current space resources. Thanks to technological advances, the UK government could now consider moving Skynet-1A back to a safer position, ensuring it no longer poses a risk to the growing population of satellites in orbit.